Anton von Störck

Anton von Störck

Anton von Störck (1731 – 1803) was an Austrian physician and pharmacologist who made significant contributions to the field of medicine in the 18th century. He was a pioneer in clinical pharmacology and is best known for his innovative approaches to treatment and his efforts in introducing new drugs into medical practice.

Early Life and Education

Anton von Störck was born in 1731 in Hohenems, a town in the Austrian state of Vorarlberg. He pursued his medical education at the University of Vienna, where he showed a keen interest in the study of drugs and their effects on the human body. After completing his studies, Störck embarked on a career that would see him become one of the most respected physicians of his time.

Career

Störck's career was largely based at the Vienna General Hospital, where he served as a physician. He was also appointed as a professor at the University of Vienna, where he taught courses on materia medica, the branch of medical science concerned with the study of drugs used in the treatment of disease.

One of Störck's major contributions to medicine was his methodical approach to testing the efficacy of medicinal plants. He conducted detailed clinical observations and experiments to assess the therapeutic value of various substances, many of which were previously untested or considered toxic. His work led to the introduction of several new drugs into medical practice, including strychnine, colchicum (used in the treatment of gout), and belladonna.

Legacy

Anton von Störck's legacy in the field of medicine is marked by his pioneering efforts in pharmacology and his approach to clinical testing. He is credited with advancing the scientific understanding of drugs and their application in therapy, laying the groundwork for future developments in pharmacology and medicine.

Throughout his career, Störck received numerous accolades and was recognized by the medical community for his contributions. His innovative methods and dedication to improving patient care left a lasting impact on the field of medicine.

Death

Anton von Störck passed away in 1803 in Vienna, Austria. His work continued to influence the fields of medicine and pharmacology long after his death.